A strong earthquake struck north of Tokyo in the early hours of Sunday local time. The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed there is no tsunami risk associated with the event.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that at approximately 2:00 AM on Sunday, 23 Aug 2026 GMT+7, a magnitude 5.9 earthquake occurred with its epicenter south of Ibaraki Prefecture at a depth of about 70 kilometers. The seismic intensity measured on Japan's scale (0 to 7) reached Lower 5 in Ibaraki, Saitama, Chiba, and Tokyo.
Operators of the Tokai No. 2 nuclear power plant in Ibaraki Prefecture and the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant stated that no abnormalities have been reported within the plant areas, and surrounding radiation levels remain normal.
JMA also reported that the seismic waves caused prolonged shaking, which could have caused tall buildings around Tokyo to sway.
Shaking intensity level 2 (Class 2) was recorded in tall buildings within Tokyo's 23 special wards, as well as in Saitama and Chiba Prefectures. This level is the third strongest on a four-level scale, making it difficult for residents in high-rise buildings to walk without holding onto stable fixtures.
In Kanagawa, Ibaraki, Tochigi, and Gunma Prefectures, shaking intensity level 1 (Class 1) was measured in tall buildings. Most occupants could feel the shaking, and items such as blinds or hanging objects visibly swayed.
Meanwhile, the Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Office received a report of a burst water pipe in Koto Ward at around 2:05 AM on Sunday. Officials have inspected the area but have not confirmed whether it is related to the earthquake.
Additionally, there were reports of temporary elevator stoppages in several locations, trapping some passengers. All affected individuals have since been safely rescued and the situation resolved.
Follow international news:https://www.thairath.co.th/news/foreign
Source:nhk